2019 Toyota Highlander SUV
What’s new
- Only minor styling revisions for 2019
- Part of the third Highlander generation introduced for 2014
Pros & Cons
- Standard high-tech safety features
- Strong V6 engine with good fuel economy
- Quiet and pleasantly compliant ride
- Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those in many competitors
- Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto aren't offered
- Weak power delivery of the base four-cylinder engine
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV pricing
in Ashburn, VA
Which Highlander does Edmunds recommend?
Edmunds' Expert Review
Overall rating
7.4 / 10The 2019 Toyota Highlander is your quintessential three-row family mover. With comfortable seating, plenty of standard safety features, a strong V6 engine and an impeccable reputation for reliability, the Highlander checks all the boxes for large families in motion. Thanks to its just-right size, the Highlander is also easy to maneuver around town and does so at near-luxury levels of quiet and comfort.
But the Highlander isn't flawless. Its third-row seat and cargo area aren't especially voluminous, and its infotainment system, while fine, doesn't offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto smartphone integration. The base four-cylinder engine is also pretty gutless, but at least the V6 that comes in most Highlanders is respectably stout.
It might be worth your while to look at some rival crossover SUVs. The Honda Pilot and the Volkswagen Atlas are roomier, for instance, and the Mazda CX-9 provides a more upscale and energetic driving experience. Overall, however, the popular Highlander has what it takes to satisfy the majority of your family-hauling needs.
2019 Toyota Highlander models
The 2019 Toyota Highlander is a three-row crossover SUV that seats eight (optional second-row captain's chairs reduce capacity to seven). It's available in six trim levels: LE, LE Plus, XLE, SE, Limited and Limited Platinum.
Toyota Highlander LE
The base LE starts with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (185 horsepower, 184 pound-feet of torque), a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The 3.5-liter V6 (295 hp, 263 lb-ft) that comes standard on all other trims is optional on the LE and pairs with an eight-speed automatic. Optional all-wheel drive can be added to the V6.
Standard LE features include 18-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors, a windshield wiper de-icer, rear privacy glass, a rearview camera, rear air conditioning, a height-adjustable driver's seat, a sliding and reclining 60/40-split second-row seat, and a reclining 60/40-split third-row seat. You also get a 6.1-inch touchscreen, five USB ports (three in the front and two in the rear), Bluetooth, and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player.
Every Highlander also comes with the Toyota Safety Sense bundle that includes automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Toyota Highlander LE Plus
The LE Plus adds the V6 engine, a height-adjustable power liftgate, a flip-up rear window, foglights, tri-zone automatic climate control, upgraded upholstery and trim, a power-adjustable driver's seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert systems, a high-resolution 8-inch touchscreen, satellite and HD radio, and a variety of smartphone-connection apps.
Toyota Highlander XLE
Building on the LE Plus' equipment, the XLE adds a sunroof, roof rails, keyless entry and ignition, an upgraded instrument panel, leather upholstery (simulated leather for the third row), heated front seats, a power-adjustable passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, second-row window sunshades, a 110-volt power outlet, a navigation system, and Driver Easy Speak, which carries the driver's voice through the rear speakers to distant passengers.
Toyota Highlander SE
The SE is equipped similarly to the XLE but with a sport theme that extends to larger 19-inch wheels, LED running lights, and sportier suspension tuning and styling elements.
Toyota Highlander Limited
The Limited adds LED running lights, different 19-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, a rear cargo cover, heated and ventilated front seats, driver-seat memory settings, second-row captain's chairs, and a 12-speaker JBL audio system to the XLE trim's features.
Toyota Highlander Limited Platinum
The Limited Platinum gains a panoramic sunroof, automatic wipers, a surround-view parking camera system, front parking sensors, Safety Connect emergency communications, a heated steering wheel, and heated second-row seats.
Trim tested
Scorecard
| Overall | 7.4 / 10 |
| Driving | 7.0 |
| Comfort | 8.0 |
| Interior | 7.5 |
| Utility | 7.5 |
| Technology | 7.0 |
Driving
7.0Acceleration
7.5Braking
7.0Steering
7.0Handling
7.0Drivability
7.0Off-road
8.0Comfort
8.0Seat comfort
7.0Ride comfort
8.5Noise & vibration
8.5Climate control
8.5Interior
7.5Ease of use
8.0Getting in/getting out
8.0Driving position
7.0Roominess
8.0Visibility
8.0Quality
8.5Utility
7.5Small-item storage
8.0Cargo space
6.5Child safety seat accommodation
8.0Towing
7.5Technology
7.0Smartphone integration
7.0Driver aids
8.0Voice control
7.0Sponsored cars related to the Highlander
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the 2019 Toyota Highlander.
Trending topics in reviews
- comfort
- safety
- handling & steering
- driving experience
- seats
- spaciousness
- road noise
- ride quality
- doors
- fuel efficiency
- engine
- dashboard
- climate control
- interior
- infotainment system
- sound system
- reliability & manufacturing quality
- technology
- appearance
- transmission
- maintenance & parts
- acceleration
- brakes
- wheels & tires
- lights
- visibility
- electrical system
- oil
- steering wheel
- towing
- value
Most helpful consumer reviews
Be aware the navigation system does not talk. After a month of being in the shop to try and determine the problem it was determined, in early January, to be a software problem that is common to the 2019 Highlander. As of the end of February still no update or estimate of when it will be available. So if you want a fully functioning navigation system stay clear of this car. UPDATE: Toyota has found and resolved the issue. We found contacting the corporate office was the way to go. They kept us informed on the progress of the group working to resolve the problem. Since that was our only issue with the car we do recommend it now.
I have only had my XLE for about a month and so far am very pleased. Traded in (somewhat reluctantly) a 2005 4Runner with 160k that was absolutely bullet-proof over 14 years. But, having recently driven a rental with what are now becoming fairly standard advanced safety features, I decided to make the change. Two things that I don't like: First, the 4Runner's steering wheel adjustment was much better. I am 6'2" and like the seat back fairly far. The Highlander has very limited front/back and up/down adjustments. Second, the overall design of the hood makes it difficult to see where you are when parking. Also, the combination of the "A" pillar plus large rear view mirror makes a large blind spot when trying to make a turn. Regarding the numerous complaints about the navigation system, they are all from "Platinum" level buyers with the supposedly upscale JBL system. I have had no problems . Having said that, my $170 Garmin is superior in several ways to the built in system.
Navigation system and voice commands do not work properly. Purchased vehicle late October. No voice commands with navigation system. Every time the vehicle is turned off in route the voice commands are lost and you have to go thru special steps to reactivate the system with voice. The alternative is to continue with the map without voice commands and try to visually follow the map while driving, which is not a safe situation. Had vehicle back to dealer three times to supposedly fit. Fourth time they told me Toyota was aware of the problem, working on it and would get back to me as soon as they had a fix. Several months later and and still no fix in sight.
Purchased a brand new Toyota Highlander Limited Platinum (2019) on February 6th 2019. A few days after I got it, (I have only owned the vehicle for the last 10 days. the Navigation system started not to work properly and then stopped responding. I went through the dealer manual and thought that I may have something turned off. Still not working 6 days later, I started looking on line and found out that I was not the only person having this issue. Toyota has know about this problem since December of 2018 and never disclosed it and kept selling the new 2019 models. Also, I'm told after bringing it back 3 times for service that currently there is no fix for the problem. So I contacted the main office of toyota and they gave me a case number and person. Well the person tells me that I need to keep the car and she will keep me updated on anything that changes regarding the navigation system and voice response. Unless I wish to try to put it in for the lemon law, but she told me I should make sure I read my State's Lemon Laws very well stating that the navigation system/voice response system is not a necessity. Well this is a $48,000 car and it affects the value and safety if you want to use it since you have to look at the screen while driving. It does not direct you at all. I also would not have purchased the car if I had known that it had this problem, but I was never told there was an issue. This problem was never disclosed to us. The dealer told me it was out of their hands and I could not return the car to them. Now I have to go through all the hoops for Lemon Law to try to get my money back because I have no Idea when they will come up with a fix for this problem. They are telling me that a round about way of using it was to press the ignition switch 2x without my foot on the break. Then put foot on break and start car. It will work until the car is shut off again. But the navigation system/voice response does not give any correct information when you ask it anything nor does it understand what you are asking it. If they do not come up with a fix right away and I want to sell the car, it cuts the value of the car. If you know anyone that wants to purchase a toyota highlander tell them DO NOT DO IT.
Features & Specs
| XLE 4dr SUV AWD 3.5L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $41,180 |
| MPG | 20 city / 26 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
| XLE 4dr SUV 3.5L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $39,720 |
| MPG | 21 city / 27 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
| LE 4dr SUV 2.7L 4cyl 6A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $31,830 |
| MPG | 20 city / 24 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 8 |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 185 hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Limited 4dr SUV AWD 3.5L 6cyl 8A | |
|---|---|
| MSRP | $44,390 |
| MPG | 20 city / 26 hwy |
| Seating | Seats 7 |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Horsepower | 295 hp @ 6600 rpm |
Safety
Our experts’ favorite Highlander safety features:
- Forward Collision Warning/Automatic Braking
- Detects an imminent collision and can automatically apply brakes to avoid collision with another vehicle or pedestrian.
- Lane Departure Alert and Steering Assist
- Alerts you when the car begins traveling out of its lane. Can apply moderate steering to correct.
- Automatic High Beams
- Detects the headlights and taillights of vehicles ahead of you and can automatically toggle the high beams to provide extra visibility.
NHTSA Overall Rating 5 out of 5 stars
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
| Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4 / 5 |
| Driver | 4 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Side Crash Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Side Barrier Rating | Rating |
| Overall | 5 / 5 |
| Driver | 5 / 5 |
| Passenger | 5 / 5 |
| Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings | Rating |
| Front Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Back Seat | 5 / 5 |
| Rollover | Rating |
| Rollover | 4 / 5 |
| Dynamic Test Result | No Tip |
| Risk Of Rollover | 18.5% |
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
| Side Impact Test | Good |
|---|---|
| Roof Strength Test | Good |
| Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint | Good |
| IIHS Small Overlap Front Test | Not Tested |
| Moderate Overlap Front Test | Good |
Toyota Highlander vs. the competition
Toyota Highlander vs. Honda Pilot
The Pilot and the Highlander take turns leading the popularity charts. Both offer expansive cabin and cargo room, strong V6 engines and impressive fuel economy. The Pilot's third row is roomier, and it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard on most trim levels. Really, though, these two are so closely matched that you can't go wrong with either.
Toyota Highlander vs. Ford Explorer
If you prefer variety, the Explorer could be the way to go. It offers a choice of three engines, including a powerful 365-hp turbocharged V6. Most buyers will be more interested in the Explorer's utility, which ably succeeds. Like the Highlander, the Explorer is quiet and keeps rough roads at bay, and its infotainment is easy to use.
Toyota Highlander vs. Volkswagen Atlas
The Atlas is a newcomer to this class and clearly borrows some parts of the Highlander's playbook. The interior is cavernous, with straightforward cabin design and controls that are easy to use. Unlike the Highlander, the Atlas has a large, comfortable third row that's well-suited to adults. But all that space and comfort create mass. The Atlas is a heavy SUV that's slow to accelerate, even with its optional V6.
FAQ
Is the Toyota Highlander a good car?
What's new in the 2019 Toyota Highlander?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2019 Toyota Highlander:
- Only minor styling revisions for 2019
- Part of the third Highlander generation introduced for 2014
Is the Toyota Highlander reliable?
Is the 2019 Toyota Highlander a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2019 Toyota Highlander?
The least-expensive 2019 Toyota Highlander is the 2019 Toyota Highlander LE 4dr SUV (2.7L 4cyl 6A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $31,830.
Other versions include:
- XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $41,180
- XLE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $39,720
- LE 4dr SUV (2.7L 4cyl 6A) which starts at $31,830
- Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $44,390
- SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $42,400
- LE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $35,340
- Limited Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $47,510
- Limited 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $42,930
- LE Plus 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $36,760
- LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $38,220
- LE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $33,880
- SE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $40,940
- Limited Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A) which starts at $46,050
What are the different models of Toyota Highlander?
More about the 2019 Toyota Highlander
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Overview
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV is offered in the following styles: XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A), XLE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A), LE 4dr SUV (2.7L 4cyl 6A), Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A), SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A), LE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A), Limited Platinum 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A), Limited 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A), LE Plus 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A), LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A), LE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A), SE 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A), and Limited Platinum 4dr SUV (3.5L 6cyl 8A).
What do people think of the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV and all its trim types. Overall, Edmunds users rate the 2019 Highlander SUV 4.0 on a scale of 1 to 5 stars. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2019 Highlander SUV.
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV and all model years in our database. Our rich analysis includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2019 Highlander SUV featuring deep dives into trim levels including XLE, LE, Limited, etc. with careful analysis around pricing, features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving and performance. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Read our full review of the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV here.Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV?
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $46,162. The average price paid for a new 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is trending $6,959 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,959 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $39,203.
The average savings for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is 15.1% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 3 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Limited 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $43,097. The average price paid for a new 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is trending $6,622 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,622 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $36,475.
The average savings for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is 15.4% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 6 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV XLE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $39,698. The average price paid for a new 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is trending $6,222 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,222 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $33,476.
The average savings for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is 15.7% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV LE Plus 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A)
The 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $44,899. The average price paid for a new 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is trending $6,737 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $6,737 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $38,162.
The average savings for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) is 15% below the MSRP.
Available Inventory:We are showing 1 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV SE 4dr SUV AWD (3.5L 6cyl 8A) vehicle(s) available in the Ashburn area.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on new cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which 2019 Toyota Highlander SUVS are available in my area?
2019 Toyota Highlander SUV Listings and Inventory
There are currently 36 new 2019 [object Object] Highlander SUVS listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $39,103 and mileage as low as 0 miles. Simply research the type of used car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap used cars for sale near you. Once you have identified a vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV. Then select Edmunds special offers, perks, deals, and incentives to contact the dealer of your choice and save up to $5,785 on a new, used or CPO 2019 [object Object] Highlander SUV available from a dealership near you.
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2019 [object Object] Highlander SUV for sale near you.
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Find a new Toyota Highlander for sale - 8 great deals out of 20 listings starting at $7,341.
Find a new Toyota for sale - 8 great deals out of 19 listings starting at $20,530.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including all models of the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV and all available trim types: SE, LE, LE, etc. Rich, trim-level features & specs and options data tracked for the 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV include (but are not limited to): MSRP, available incentives and deals, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (interior and exterior color, upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, cruise control, parking assistance, lane sensing, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy and MPG (city, highway, and combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (interior cabin space, vehicle length and width, seating capacity, cargo space). Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds expert review, safety rating, and color.
Should I lease or buy a 2019 Toyota Highlander SUV?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Toyota lease specials